by Administrator
3. March 2010 17:31
20 years ago, when someone mentioned a mobile phone they'd be referring to a brick-like device that could only make poor quality calls. Since then mobile phones and mobile devices in general have dramatically improved and advanced.
Now it seems there's no limit to what you can do on a mobile device. Take a picture, make a video, surf the web, pay your credit card bill; all these applications and more can be achieved using a simple hand held device so it's no wonder they've become so popular with mobile workers.
And smartphones (a mobile phone converged with a hand held device) are set to become even more popular in the coming years. Studies predict that by 2011, 46% of mobile workers will use smartphones and over the next 3 years the enterprise application to smartphones will rise by 196%.
While many companies are keen to embrace smartphones, not many are aware of the dangers and the aspects they need to consider before investing.
1. The cost of wireless: It's imperative mobile devices have secure, quality wireless internet to run properly. New research shows firms can save up to 25% per user per month by creating a proper management system for their wireless connectivity. Aspects of wireless costs to consider include data usage, network coverage and quality of service. There are now lots of WiFi hotspots and hundreds of wireless carriers so finding the best deal shouldn't be a problem.
2. Remote control and access: Mobile workers often carry key information via their wireless networks so it's key to have good systems in place to provide back up to mobile workers at all times. Mobile device management systems should be put in place so updates install automatically. This saves both mobile workers and support staff valuable time and money.
3. Security risks: Many firms have chosen to disable the messaging aspects on their mobile devices to eliminate the risk of malware viruses and hackers. Although this is a great way to cut risks, it also eliminates the purpose of mobile devices. Firms need to be sensible about security risks and put policies in place to reduce the factors which can lead to problems.
4. Policy enforcement: It's important to enforce policy for a number of reasons. Software management software can help employees identify where their mobile workers are and just how many calls or messages they're making. GPS software allows mobile workers to prove where they've been and can help employees identify their wireless connectivity needs.
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